Licking Elementary staff greets students at Open House

Shari Harris, Publisher

Parents, grandparents, students and siblings eagerly awaited the opening of the Licking Elementary Open House Monday afternoon. A line had formed before the doors opened at 4 p.m., signalling the start of the Open House. The excitement of a new school year was in the air and visible in the smiling faces of administrators, teachers, staff, and most parents and students. Any looks of concern were hopefully erased during the event, as administration, teachers and staff strove to make all feel welcome and allay concerns about the upcoming year, which officially begins for students on Wednesday, August 20.

Attendees were greeted by Elementary Principal Mr. Brian Barry, and those who were not registered were assisted with the process in the elementary cafeteria by Mr. JD Hoffman, Technology Director/District Registrar. Mr. Tony Huff, Transportation Director, also met with parents in the cafeteria, discussing bus schedules and routes. Several tables were covered with books there as well, with those attending encouraged to take a free book.

Most were able to head directly to their classrooms to greet their teachers, some carrying backpacks of supplies, like tissues, disinfectant wipes and other necessities.

Before leaving, students could meet the cafeteria staff, who were offering free snacks. Also present at the Open House were elementary office staff, School Resource Officer Bobby Duncan, and District Superintendent Telena Haneline.